WASHINGTON (December 10, 2009) -- U.S. Senators Kerry, Graham and Lieberman sent a letter to President Obama today that lays out their framework for advancing clean energy and climate legislation in the Senate.

Following is a statement from Dan Lashof, Director of the Climate Center at the Natural Resources Defense Council:

“These Senators are showing leadership to build support and move the ball forward on climate protection and low-carbon energy solutions for our country. While we do not support all elements, this framework embraces key principles for sound legislation that will create jobs, enhance energy security and cut carbon pollution, while protecting consumers.”

“America needs to move quickly to reduce the heat-trapping gases that cause global warming. The last decade was the hottest on record, and we cannot afford to wait to protect people from the impacts of melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and more severe droughts.

“We look forward to working with Senators Kerry, Graham, and Lieberman and their colleagues to pass legislation that recharges our economy and cuts carbon pollution in a responsible manner. With bold leadership from the president and Congress, America can find solutions to today’s challenges – helping to build a clean energy economy and protect the environment for generations to come.”

The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is an international nonprofit environmental organization with more than 1.4 million members and online activists. Since 1970, our lawyers, scientists, and other environmental specialists have worked to protect the world's natural resources, public health, and the environment. NRDC has offices in New York City, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Bozeman, MT, and Beijing. Visit us at www.nrdc.org and follow us on Twitter @NRDC.